ABSTRACT
Population aging is a process that is especially accelerated in some parts of the world. One example is in Latin America. As with other developing regions, Latin America has to confront population "graying" in the context of an emerging economy. As a result of this and of their health history, the prevalence and incidence of age-related pathologies are different than those in the developed world. The burden of dementia is significant for patients, families, health systems, and public health. The aim of this paper was to summarize data from the scarce dementia epidemiological studies available in Latin America, the diagnostic criteria used in most countries and the most widely used diagnostic tools and neuropsychological assessment instruments (some of them translated, validated, and harmonized). Reference is made to the approval process and availability in Argentina of dementia and cognitive decline-related drugs.
Subject(s)
Dementia, Vascular/diagnosis , Dementia, Vascular/epidemiology , Developing Countries/statistics & numerical data , Dementia/drug therapy , Dementia, Vascular/psychology , Humans , Latin America , Neuropsychological Tests , PrevalenceABSTRACT
Latin-American countries are expected to experience an expansion of the elderly population, as life expectancy increases. We reviewed the literature to determine the frequency of dementia in our region and surveyed selected Latin-American countries to determine the availability of diagnostic and treatment services and long-term care facilities. Latin-American countries face a challenge to develop public health strategies to cope with the anticipated heightened number of elderly with cognitive impairment.
